Ear wax production is a normal body function to protect your ear against moisture and bacteria. The outer portion of the canal contains specialized cells that secrete a wax-like substance called cerumen. At times, excessive wax production will cause a blockage. leading to hearing loss. According to the American Hearing Research Foundation, the best method of ear wax removal is under direct supervision of a doctor. However, injecting saline using a needleless-syringe is an effective home remedy to remove the waxy material.
Step 1
Warm the saline to body temperature. This should range from 90 to 100 degrees F, or slightly warm to touch. A microwave can be used, but if you are using saline from a bottle, the double-boiler method works better.
Step 2
Lie horizontal with one ear facing upward. Place one to two drops of mineral oil or hydrogen peroxide in the upward-facing ear. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, ear syringing is most effective when these drops are put in 15 to 30 minutes prior to treatment.
Step 3
Place a towel or basin on the shoulder of the ear you are irrigating while sitting upright. This will catch the irrigation fluid to avoid a mess, and help identify when the waxy material is flushed out.
Step 4
Gently tug your earlobe down and back to straighten the canal opening. This will ease the saline flush and enable the wax material to flow out.
Step 5
Place the tip of the saline at the opening of the ear canal and push the plunger on the syringe. Irrigate the canal until all the wax is removed.
Tips and Warnings
- Having a steady-handed assistant administer the saline will help with better irrigation and direct visualization of the ear canal. Be prepared for the initial shot of saline to cause a slight flinch from discomfort of water in the ear. Consult a physician if you experience any problems with the procedure.
- Nausea may occur when using cold saline. Avoid depressing the syringe plunger too hard, which can cause discomfort or ear drum rupture. Do not use the syringe method if you have a perforated ear drum. Stop immediately if you experience pain and seek medical attention.
Things You'll Need
- Mineral oil
- Hydrogen peroxide (optional)
- Needleless syringe
- Saline
- Towel
- Basin
